Hollywood, Florida, often referred to as Hollywood Beach, is a vibrant city nestled in the southeastern part of Broward County, Florida. Perfectly positioned, it lies midway between the bustling metropolises of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, offering a unique blend of relaxed beach town charm and easy access to major urban centers. Founded in 1925 by Joseph Young, this dynamic city spans approximately 30 square miles and proudly stands as Broward County’s third-largest municipality, boasting a population of around 153,000 residents. Known for its delightful climate, Hollywood enjoys an average annual high temperature of 83 degrees Fahrenheit and a comfortable low of 68 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an attractive destination year-round.
Discovering Hollywood, Florida: Location and Geography
To pinpoint exactly Where Is Hollywood Florida, envision the southeastern coast of Florida. Hollywood is strategically located within Broward County, placing it firmly within the highly populated and dynamic South Florida region. Its geographical coordinates place it conveniently between the larger cities of Miami to the south and Fort Lauderdale to the north. This prime location provides residents and visitors alike with easy access to the amenities and attractions of both major cities while maintaining its own distinct identity and appeal.
Hollywood’s 30 square miles encompass a diverse landscape, from its stunning beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean to residential neighborhoods and thriving commercial districts. The city’s layout is well-planned, reflecting its origins as a vision of urban development by its founder, Joseph Young.
A City with History: Hollywood’s Founding and Evolution
Hollywood’s story began in 1925 with the vision of Joseph Young, a developer who sought to create a meticulously planned “Dream City of the South.” Inspired by the glamour of Hollywood, California, he named his Florida creation similarly, hoping to capture some of that same allure. Young’s original plans for Hollywood were ambitious and comprehensive, including underground utilities, a network of canals, and Mediterranean-style architecture. While the boom of the 1920s and the subsequent Great Depression impacted Young’s initial vision, the city persevered and evolved into the thriving community it is today.
Throughout the decades, Hollywood has experienced periods of growth and transformation, adapting to the changing needs of South Florida while preserving its unique character. From its early days as a planned community to its modern status as a popular tourist destination and residential haven, Hollywood’s history is rich with stories of ambition, resilience, and community spirit.
Hollywood Beach and Broadwalk: A Coastal Paradise
Hollywood is synonymous with its spectacular coastline, featuring seven miles of pristine beaches that beckon visitors and residents alike. But the crown jewel of Hollywood’s beachfront is undoubtedly the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. This iconic promenade stretches nearly 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering a car-free haven for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers. Recognized as one of “America’s Best Beach Boardwalks” by Travel + Leisure magazine, the brick-paved Broadwalk is a vibrant hub of activity throughout the year, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Lined with dozens of diverse eateries, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants, and charming inns, the Broadwalk provides a quintessential beach town experience. Beyond dining and accommodation, the promenade boasts attractions like the Hollywood Beach Theatre, which hosts live performances, and Charnow Park, featuring an interactive children’s water playground. For those seeking luxurious beachfront stays, Hollywood Beach offers a range of resort hotels and condominiums, including the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, Hyde Resort & Residences, and Hollywood Beach Marriott, alongside numerous independently owned boutique hotels and vacation rentals.
Education in Hollywood: Schools and Institutions
Hollywood places a strong emphasis on education, providing a comprehensive network of 32 public and charter schools encompassing elementary, middle, and high school levels. These schools, part of the Broward County Public Schools system, offer a wide array of award-winning magnet programs designed to cater to diverse student interests and talents. These specialized programs include S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE), Communication and Broadcasting, Military Academy, Health and Wellness, Montessori education, and various others, ensuring a rich and varied learning environment.
In addition to its public school system, Hollywood is home to 13 private schools and a selection of career-focused institutions. Furthermore, the city benefits from the presence of nationally recognized higher education institutions that have established research and educational facilities within Hollywood, including Barry University, Nova Southeastern University, and City College, contributing to a culture of lifelong learning and academic opportunity.
Hollywood as a Business and Economic Hub
Beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, Hollywood has cultivated a thriving and diverse business environment, hosting over 10,000 companies within the city limits. A significant economic driver for Hollywood is Port Everglades, the world’s second-busiest cruise port, with approximately 80 percent of its facilities located within the city. Port Everglades serves as a homeport for Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, two of the largest cruise liners globally, highlighting Hollywood’s importance in the cruise industry.
Hollywood’s strategic location also provides excellent connectivity, with easy access to both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport, major gateways to Latin America and the world. Adding to its economic strength is the presence of the Memorial Healthcare System, the nation’s fifth-largest healthcare network. Memorial Regional Hospital, the system’s flagship facility, and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, the largest freestanding children’s healthcare facility in Broward County, are both located in Hollywood, making the city a significant hub for healthcare services.
Downtown Hollywood: Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
Historic Downtown Hollywood serves as the city’s vibrant cultural and entertainment core. Anchored by the ArtsPark at Young Circle, a dynamic outdoor venue, Downtown Hollywood is a lively district brimming with bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The ArtsPark at Young Circle regularly hosts concerts, music festivals, dance performances, art exhibitions, and a wide range of events, making it a focal point for community gatherings and artistic expression.
Visitors to Downtown Hollywood can immerse themselves in a diverse array of musical genres and entertainment options, from live jazz and blues to rock, Latin, and R&B, all within easy walking distance of each other. This concentration of entertainment venues, combined with its artistic atmosphere, makes Downtown Hollywood a compelling destination for both locals and tourists seeking cultural experiences and nightlife.
Hollywood: Hometown Charm with a World-Class Beach
In conclusion, Hollywood Florida is located in southeastern Broward County, perfectly positioned between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city access. With its stunning seven-mile stretch of beaches, the iconic Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a thriving business environment, excellent educational institutions, and a vibrant downtown arts and culture scene, Hollywood provides a desirable hometown atmosphere with the added allure of a world-class beach in the heart of South Florida. It’s a city that truly offers the best of both worlds.
